KCC Receives DOT Recognition for launching TOPCOP Special Class

(Director Kim Myeongjin of KCC with the Department of Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco during the awarding ceremony at the 9th Speakers’ Synergy and Appreciation held last April 30, 2025. Photo Courtesy: Department of Tourism)

(May 5, 2025) — The Korean Cultural Center in the Philippines (KCC) is proud to have been recognized by the Department of Tourism (DOT) during the “9th Speakers' Synergy and Appreciation” event held on April 30, 2025. This recognition affirms KCC’s strong commitment to tourism education and cultural collaboration in support of the Philippines’ growing tourism sector.

The award was given in acknowledgment of KCC’s partnership with DOT in the development and implementation of a Korean language and culture training program for selected police officers under the TOP COP (Tourism-Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection) Special Class.

Through this initiative, police personnel assigned to key tourism destinations across the country (Boracay, Cebu, Bohol, Palawan, Davao, and Clark) received foundational Korean language skills and cultural knowledge—equipping them to better assist and engage with Korean tourists.

(Trainers and partners present at the awarding ceremony at the 9th Speakers’ Synergy and Appreciation held last April 30, 2025. Photo Courtesy: Department of Tourism)

“We are deeply honored by this recognition and grateful to the Department of Tourism for sharing in our vision of a more inclusive and culturally aware tourism experience,” said Mr. Kim Myeongjin, Director of KCC. “This partnership reflects the strength of our bilateral ties and our shared commitment to hospitality, safety, and meaningful cultural exchange.”

The program not only contributes to safer and more welcoming environments for Korean visitors, but also fosters a deeper understanding between the Filipino service sector and Korean culture—strengthening the cultural bridge between both nations.

(Batch 1 TOPCOP Special Class Students during their online completion ceremony held last December 2024. Photo Courtesy: Department of Tourism)

In line with this ongoing partnership, KCC and DOT are currently preparing for the next batch of TOP COP Special Class with training scheduled to begin later this year. The upcoming session will continue to expand the reach and impact of the program, empowering more officers with tools for effective communication and deeper cultural awareness.